The university relies on an array of communication tools to keep the campus community informed and relay safety instructions in the event of an emergency. University Police and Marketing and Communications are the only campus offices authorized to disseminate official information about campus emergencies to the campus community. The modes of communication are listed below. They vary with the nature and severity of the situation.

Accuracy and timing are critical to preserving the safety and security of campus. Before discussing, sharing, or forwarding messages about emergency situations, please check official communication channels for accurate information.

Sirens are used to alert the public of an impending danger such as tornado, severe thunderstorm with high winds or large hail, hazardous material spill, or a safety threat. If you hear a siren, you should take cover inside away from glass doors and windows, and tune into your local radio or television stations for further instructions. If you cannot get to a radio or television, initiate tornado protection procedures as this is the most likely reason for the siren to sound.

The sirens do not sound for the entire duration of a tornado warning. Do not assume that the danger has passed when sirens stop.

The emergency warning sirens are tested each Friday at 11 a.m. These tests last for 30 seconds. If the emergency warning sirens sound on a Friday morning for longer than 30 seconds, you should initiate tornado protection procedures.

Ball State issues three types of notifications during emergencies depending on the urgency or severity of the situation: emergency warnings, public safety advisories, and BSUInform notices. Learn more.

Emergency call boxes are in classrooms and other places around campus where it is inappropriate to place a regular telephone. The call boxes work like a telephone and dial the University Police Department once the button is pressed.

Also, call boxes will receive alerts and say them aloud during emergencies. This happens almost instantaneously across all call boxes on campus.